Marathon Runner Spotlight: Annie
Annie is our next Runner Spotlight! A volunteer with PAWS NY since 2018, Annie is looking to improve upon her race time after running the TCS New York City Marathon in 2019.
“I have been dog walking for PAWS NY since April 2018,” she said. “I’ve been walking a golden retriever named Valla now for about three years and our walks are definitely one of the highlights of my week!”
Learn more about Annie, who lives in Jersey City, in her Q&A below, including her favorite places to run and which SNL star she met during a PAWS NY walk!
Why did you decide to run the Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?
I ran the NYC Marathon in 2019. The experience was incredible, however, the race didn’t go as well as I had wanted and I am looking to run faster this year.
What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?
I have been dog walking for PAWS NY since April 2018. I’ve been walking a golden retriever named Valla now for about three years and our walks are definitely one of the highlights of my week!
Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?
I grew up with pet dogs and cats. I currently have a cat named Lily.
How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?
I have been running for 13 years and ran NCAA Division 1 Track for Lehigh University. I’ve been running about six days a week since graduating. Some of my favorite places to run are the Waterfront in Jersey City/Hoboken, the Saucon Rail Trail in Hellertown PA, and Liberty State Park.
What do you do in your free time (besides run)?
Outside of running and working, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, taking Peloton classes, watching Bravo, and playing piano.
Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?
- I speak Spanish fluently.
- My birthday is 11/11 (make a wish)!
- I ran into Kenan Thompson while dog walking for PAWS two years ago.
What are your goals for the Marathon?
I am looking to hopefully run around 3:30 for this year’s Marathon.
Donate to support Annie and the rest of Team PAWS NY as we get closer to the 2021 TCS New York City Marathon!